Ammunition Feeding Device with Pivotable Shell Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ammunition feeding devices for automatic loading systems are limited by non-detachable actuator connections, requiring large space and not allowing individual unloading/loading, and existing designs lack protection during transport and simultaneous operation of all cups.
Innovation Solution
A compact feeding device with releasable actuation and pivotable shell segments, where a central actuating means can interact with multiple containers via a slider and control surfaces, enabling individual opening/closing and secure holding of ammunition using securing elements, allowing for mixed ammunition types and efficient space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a non-detachable actuator connection is used for each container, then reliable actuation is achieved, but the device requires large space and cannot allow individual unloading/loading
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple containers share a single central actuating means through a common linkage mechanism. The actuating means is coupled to multiple sliders, each connected to different containers, allowing one actuator to control multiple containers simultaneously or individually, thereby reducing the number of actuators and saving space.
Solution Approach 2:
The central actuating means serves multiple functions by being able to actuate different containers at different times or simultaneously. The linkage mechanism allows the single actuator to distribute motion to multiple sliders, enabling universal control across all containers while maintaining individual actuation capability.
2Ease of operation
If all cups are opened/closed simultaneously by a common lever mechanism, then simple operation is achieved, but ammunition is not protected during transport and individual loading is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The common lever mechanism is replaced with individual linkage mechanisms for each container, where each container has its own slider and control surface. This segmentation allows independent actuation of each container while still being controllable by a central actuating means, enabling both simple operation and individual loading capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static simultaneous opening/closing mechanism to a dynamic system where containers can be actuated individually or in groups based on operational requirements. The control surfaces and linkages allow flexible timing and sequencing of container operations.
3Strength
If securing elements are added to hold ammunition, then secure holding of heavy-caliber rounds is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Securing elements are added locally at specific positions on the containers where ammunition contact is required, rather than redesigning the entire container structure. The securing elements are integrated into the existing container and slider design, providing enhanced holding capability with minimal additional complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A feeding device for an automatic loading system. The feeding device has a plurality of containers, each for receiving one object, and at least one actuator for opening and closing the containers. Each container has one slider and two shell segments arranged pivotably on a holder. The shell segments are pivoted back and forth in a functionally effective manner between a release position and a holding position by linear displacement of the slider. The slider is actuated by releasable contact with the actuator, and/or the slide acts on the shell segments via a control surface and a control element interacting with the control surface. The control element moves along the control surface when the slide is displaced linearly.